Grapevine Online Exclusive

Fear and the Fourth Step

An AA describes how a Step helped him to change his attitudes and feelings

I think most of us arrive in AA with fear of the unknown. Early in August of 1982, I attended my first few meetings. I can remember wondering: what would become of me? Would I be OK here? Would I be accepted? How could I fit in? Was I worthy of help? They told me on a daily basis, "Failure here... Read more

The July Issue of Grapevine Is Here!

This month, the magazine includes our annual special section on AA in Prison

Getting and staying sober in prison can be tough, especially since many institutions don't have AA meetings. This is where Grapevine can be helpful. Each year at this time, we dedicate our issue to alcoholics in prisons and jails. This month, we feature hopeful stories from AAs who are currently... Read more

Grapevine Online Exclusive

Searching for Acceptance

In order to stay sober, she had to accept the truth of who she really was

I first came to AA 22 years ago when I was 19. I was a scared young woman, at war with herself and the world. The anger fed the war and covered my fears. When I tried to get sober, the anger made it hard as I fought the suggestions given me—sometimes outright and sometimes with subtlety. I knew my... Read more